Premiership Cup final off after potential Covid-19 case
Sale Sharks Tom Curry tries to break a tackle during the Gallagher Premiership match at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford.
The Premiership Rugby Cup final between Sale Sharks and Harlequins has been postponed after a staff member from one of the clubs displayed possible coronavirus symptoms.
The two sides were set to meet at the AJ Bell Stadium on Sunday in the showpiece event, but that has now been cancelled and a new date will be announced in due course.
A statement from Premiership Rugby said: “Unfortunately, Sunday’s Premiership Rugby Cup Final has been postponed following an individual on staff developing symptoms consistent with Coronavirus (Covid-19). The individual is now safely in isolation.
“We’re incredibly sorry to all the people who will be disappointed, however the welfare of fans, players and staff remains our first concern, and so we must postpone the game for now.
“We will continue to consult with DCMS, Public Health England, and our clubs; and will announce rescheduling as soon we can.”
Harlequins chief executive Laurie Dalrymple added: “The health and wellbeing of our staff, supporters and players is of paramount importance to us. Whilst we know that supporters will naturally be disappointed by the postponement of the final, we also hope they will understand that playing the fixture at this time is not practical.
“We will continue to work closely with Premiership Rugby and the relevant authorities to determine the best way to proceed from this point in order to reschedule the match where possible. We will communicate an update to our supporters as soon as we are in a position to do so regarding date of rearranged fixture.
“Tickets will be valid for the rearranged fixture or supporters should liaise with the host club Sale if they are unable to attend the rearranged fixture, to obtain a refund for their match ticket.”